Motives

It is better to be godly and have little than to be evil and rich. For the strength of the wicked will be shattered, but the Lord takes care of the godly. [Psalm 37.16-17]

I don't know that we really believe this passage. OK, I don't know if I really believe this passage (not based on what I say, but how I live). I think I believe it, but isn't it worth being sure - even to the point of examining my motives every time I read it?

I am facing a monumental decision in my life and it has everything to do with not only making a living, but potentially making a nice living, and it also deals with where I live.  Ironically, the same chapter in Psalms (37) says the following: Turn from evil and do good, and you will live in the land forever. [Psalm 37.27]  What land? It could only be the land they want to live in!

So, for me, I am wondering how this all applies (or if it does apply at all) to me. I find myself wanting to do well financially but I don't necessarily want to live where 'doing well' would require that I live. Likewise, I cannot say that for me to 'do well' requires anything evil, but I want to be sure that my motives are pure in wanting to do so.

I must also examine my motives for laziness. It would be easy to say I wish to avoid evil while really all I want to avoid is hard work.

Father, I really want to know in my heart that I am living for You and not for me. Help me to get past my indecision on my current matter-at-hand and ultimately please You in the direction I take!